THE FIGHT FOR PHILIP’S WILL
From Land Rovers to pony carts, the battle over Prince Philip’s belongings has brought out the worst in his heirs. Last week, it was ruled in the High Court that Philip’s will would remain private for 90 years “to protect the Queen’s dignity”, as is tradition for senior royals. However, behind palace gates, tensions have reached boiling point.
“This is personal for everyone and there are a lot of hurt feelings,” says a regal mole. “Combined with what has been a difficult year for the royals, everyone’s struggling to hold back their anger.”
Plus, the source adds that there are more than a few “noses are out of joint” over Philip’s loyal friend, Penny Knatchbull, being left many of his personal belongings.
“But that’s nothing compared to the battle over his military medals going on, with Charles, William, Edward, Andrew and Harry,” says the source.
“Their timing is bizarre and it only makes everyone more upset. Charles and Edward were teamed up against Andrew, who’s making a play for Wood Farm [Philip’s hunting lodge at Sandringham], but have since fallen out over their dad’s Land Rovers.”
Sources add that the Queen and other women in the family are “disappointed in the boys”.
“Philip sorted all this out many years ago and made his wishes clear,” adds the insider. “But Charles hinting that Edward may not inherit the
Duke of Edinburgh title proves that
Philip’s sons don’t care what he wanted.”